Utica Chiropractor Discusses Lower Back Pain

Utica Chiropractor Discusses Lower Back Pain

Many people have several different, postures, sleeping patterns, and positions that feel comfortable when we’re watching T.V. or relaxing. Quite often this info can be helpful when alleviating low back pain (LBP).

When working with lower back pain, in most cases there is a position where people feel less pain and discomfort. This could be sitting, lying on their stomach or resting on their back with their knees bent. As soon as we check these positions it is possible to determine the persons preferred movement in the spine. Then we take this info to develop a specific exercise regimen to help minimize pain and increase strength and flexibility.

Most people are likely to feel better when their spine is in flexion(bent). This basically means, a position where the spine is taken out of neutral position and put in a forward movement. To provide an example, this might be sitting or lying face-up with both knees bent. These positions could be more comfortable because the tension is removed from the pelvis providing a more optimum point where lumbar muscles can be relaxed. Flexion exercises may not be for everybody. For instance, people with acute disc herniation should avoid these sorts of exercises .

The other position is extension. With extension, people might feel better standing upright or lying face down. This position, bends the spine backwards. Extension may not be suitable for everyone. Those with spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis, fractures or tumors shouldn’t do extension exercises.

Spondylolysis– a defect of vertebra.

Spondylolisthesis– a descriptive term referred to slippage of a vertebra

Dr. Paul Williams developed flexion exercises in the 1930s. He created these exercises to help reduce pain and provide lower trunk stability. This is accomplished by strengthening the stomach muscles, gluteus maximus, and hamstring muscles. The flexion exercises also stretch the hip flexors and lower back muscles. Flexion exercises are really easy to do and can help alleviate tight muscles

Robin McKenzie developed extension exercises in the 1950s. These exercises help centralize the back pain a patient is suffering from. If a patient has discomfort in more than one area, for instance lower back, right thigh, right buttock, and right calf, extension exercises can centralize pain so that ultimately the patient would feel only feel pain in the lower back.

Both flexion and extension exercises may be used when dealing with lower back pain. With the knowledge of how these techniques apply to our patients, we can help with the healing process, making lives easier.

If you are looking for a healthcare facility that is interested in treating “you”, and not a disease or condition, Total Health Systems of Macomb County is the perfect fit for all your healthcare needs.

Utica Chiropractor Discusses Lower Back Pain

Total Health Systems is chiropractic clinic with locations in Washington Township, Chesterfield, and Clinton Township. For more information on treating lower back pain or to schedule an appointment with a Utica chiropractor, please contact our office at 586-781-0800.

Looking for a chiropractor in the Utica Area? Call Today: 586-228-0270